Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18
This is once again a command from Paul that is not possible for the natural person. Only through the guidance of the Holy Spirit can we be truly thankful. When we pray, we should not only thank God for the blessings we receive, but we should also pray for a thankful heart.
We should be thankful in all circumstances here on Earth because the future for a Christian is so amazing that it overshadows any earthly hardship. There may be a practical application here as well. When we practice thankfulness, people notice, and it can be contagious. Being happy and joyous lightens the load of those around you, making the way for the Gospel. Christians can be thankful in all circumstances because they are already citizens of God’s Kingdom. That is something to celebrate!